Euro 2012: QF2 Preview: Germany vs Greece

Gdansk, Jun 21: With 100 percent results in the Group stage, favourites Germany take on underdogs Greece in the second quarter-final of Euro 2012 played at Arena Gdansk in Gdansk.

The Germans, tipped favourites to win the competition, topped 'The Group of Death' beating the likes of Portugal, Denmark and bitter rivals Netherlands. Greece revived memories of Euro 2004 triumph as they climbed their way to second spot with a 1-0 win over Russia.

Greece were the most unlikely team to qualify after failing to secure victories against co-host Poland and Czech Republic. But a goal from captain and talisman Giorgos Karagounis against Russia was enough to seal a quarter-final berth.

Though Germany are favourites to reach the last four, the Greeks are known for their resistance and ability to strike back as they did in 2004, beating France 1-0 in their only previous quarter-finals appearance.

The Mannschaft have been exceptionally impressive against the Dutch and the Danes while their defence looked shaky against Portugal. The only side to clinch nine points and three wins have less to worry regarding players form and fitness.

Apart from their winning form, Germany also have history on their side. They have never lost to Greece in eight previous clashes and have also won all four European Championship quarter-finals they have contested.

Joachim Lowe's side have so far been playing consistently with lone striker Mario Gomez in fine form scoring three goals in the tournament. Their defence is well organised and structured but conceded two goals during the group stage.

While Fernendo Santos' men began their Euro campaign with a draw followed by a loss, but made a remarkable come back against Russia as Karagounis' solitary goal gave them a chance to believe and showcase the title 'Born Fighters'.

However, the Greeks inspiring captain is suspended after picking up two yellow cards. Lack of pace, inability to pass swiftly, conceding possession in midfield are the reasons for their failure in the first two matches but they fought hard and denied the Russians who had 80 percent ball possession during the second half of their encounter.

Germany are known for direct pass-and-play technique and they won't need any different style to overpower their opponents. While the Greeks will be pushed back and will need to turn on the defensive mode to repeat their heroics against Russia.

Greece forward Giorgos Samaras seems lost playing in the left flank while other strikers like Dimitris Salpingidis and Fanis Gekas look more hungry for goals.

Germany have many positives to look at ahead of their quarter-final match with Mat Hummels being their most impressive performer in defence along with Bastian Schweinsteiger who dictates play in midfield and has two assists in three games. Play-maker Mesut Ozil is a definite threat to any defence providing simple through passes and breaking the defensive back-line.